Choosing A Renewable Energy Source

After you know your energy usage and expenses and have reduced
your demand, you need to decide what you want to accomplish. What is
your end goal? Are you looking to heat your building, produce
electricity, or fuel your vehicle? Learn more about each energy source
below, along with a few key points to consider when assessing the
feasibility of each resource.

Biomass

Biomass is organic material and can provide heat, electricity and/or power transportation. A
fireplace, pellet stove or boiler can be used for heating. Large
facilities may find that electricity production is also financially
viable with a boiler or anaerobic digester. Biofuels can power
vehicles. The sources available will vary by region and ultimately
dictate the financial viability of using this type of energy.

Geothermal

Geothermal heating and cooling systems utilize underground thermal
energy to provide constant humidity and comfortable temperatures while
using only enough electricity to power a blower to move the warm or cool
air throughout a building. Correctly sizing the system to the space it
will be heating/cooling is crucial for efficient operation. Climate,
soil conditions, and available outdoor space will dictate the the layout
of system. Retrofitting an existing building is possible.

Hydro

Hydroelectric is often cost effective but requires running water on
your property. The height the water drops (head) and the flow of water
are used to determine the amount of electricity that can be produced and
will dictate system design. Permitting can be a long multi-step
process.

Solar

Solar energy can be utilized in many different ways, from passive space
heating to water heating to electricity generation. Incorporating
passive heating design is easiest in new buildings, but steps can be
taken to also utilize it in established buildings. A south facing
location that is shade-free is the key factor in determining whether
solar water heating and electric generation are possible.

Wind

Wind energy can be an efficient way to generate electricity, when a
resource is available. Proper siting of a turbine (including being in a
windy location and well above obstacles, like trees and buildings) is
essential for maximum power production. Wind maps can help determine
whether advanced site analysis would be worthwhile.

After you have decided which
renewable energy you are most interested in, scroll down to find more
information specific to YOUR location.
Click on your county to find out about renewable energy specific
ordinances, net metering with your utility, and local installers.